Who’s replacing Blake Shelton on The Voice?

The Voice has just announced a huge addition to its roster of coaches. As Blake Shelton leaves, the show is bringing a music icon to take his place. Who is it and when do they debut on the hit show?

Since The Voice debuted in 2011, Blake Shelton has been one of its mainstays. He was one of the original four coaches for the series, along with Christina Aguilera, CeeLo Green and Adam Levine. Green left after season 5, Aguilera after season 10 and Levine departed after season 16.

Since then, Shelton has overseen a batch of coaches that included Gwen Stefani, Miley Cyrus, Kelly Clarkson, John Legend and more.

Season 23 had the country star, Clarkson, Niall Horan and Chance the Rapper as the coaches who judge the auditioning singers, give them advice, and push their favorites to reach new heights.

Shelton has been a popular figure on the show, from his good humor to truly wanting to help the contestants and can boast of being a nine-time champion for the series. Since the announcement of his departure, there’s been buzz on who can replace Shelton and now it’s been answered.

Who is the new coach on The Voice?

Taking Shelton’s place is multiple award-winning country music icon Reba McEntire. The singer/actress was last seen in a villainous role on the ABC drama Big Sky and still does a lot of touring. McEntire will join Horan and the returning Legend and Stefani.

Kelly Clarkson won’t be a coach, which is a shame as she and McEntire are old friends and, in fact, Clarkson was married to McEntire’s former stepson Brandon Blackstock. McEntire had appeared in season 23 as the “Mega Mentor” for the knockout round and her appearance instantly pushed her to the front of the choices to replace Shelton.

McEntire tweeted out the news and how excited she was to appear on the show. While fans of Shelton may be sorry to see him go, McEntire promises to bring her usual great sass and charm to keep The Voice going for a while.

The Voice seasons 1-23 are streaming on Peacock.